Lawsuits for PFAS Government Remediation
What is PFAS?
Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are chemical compounds commonly found in industrial processes, manufacturing, and various household products. PFAS, often labeled as a carcinogen, poses severe health risks. If you or your loved ones have been exposed to PFAS due to pollution and negligent actions from government bodies, you have the right to pursue a lawsuit.
At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, we focus on supporting clients who are suing government entities for PFAS exposure and its harmful effects. Our experienced Cadiz criminal lawyer will guide you through every step of the legal process to ensure you seek justice.
PFAS in Our Environment
PFAS, along with other chemical compounds, have been detected in public and private water supplies across the United States. Prolonged industrial manufacturing and overuse have worsened the situation. Addressing this contamination, or remediation, is both a critical and costly procedure. It’s the responsibility of the government to manage such efforts effectively.
How are PFAS Used?
PFAS plays a significant economic role for companies like DuPont and 3M, where its application generates billions in revenue. PFAS are critical in manufacturing stain repellents and industrial water products, with an annual industry revenue of $1 billion. Beyond this, a secondary market generates an additional $100 million each year, with PFAS usage in products like lubricants, paints, spray-on coatings, and polishes.
Common Uses of PFAS
PFAS are widely utilized in industries and can be found in processes such as:
- Flame-retardant production
- Fire extinguisher foam
- Pesticides
- Printing inks
- Hydraulic fluids for automobiles and aerospace
- Components for photocopiers and color devices
- Medical device manufacturing
- Metal or chrome plating
- Non-stick cookware coatings
- Packaging for food products
Health Impacts of PFAS Exposure
The consequences of PFAS exposure are severe for both humans and wildlife. Its classification as a prominent carcinogen highlights how damaging it can be. Some major health issues linked to PFAS exposure include:
- Testicular and kidney cancer
- High cholesterol levels
- Pre-eclampsia or toxemia, a risky pregnancy complication
- Thyroid dysfunction
- Infertility
- Autoimmune diseases
- Developmental disabilities
- Mental impairments
- Blood disorders
- Ulcerative colitis
These risks highlight the importance of addressing contamination at both an individual and community level. Consult a Cadiz OVI lawyer for assistance in your area.
How Does PFAS Enter Our Water Supply?
The most significant avenue for PFAS contamination is industrial waste disposal. Once discharged, PFAS mixes into rivers, streams, and soil. With rainfall, this harmful compound infiltrates underground aquifers. Since PFAS are non-biodegradable, they persist in the environment indefinitely.
PFAS usage in fire suppressant foams, industrial lubricants, and hydraulic acids makes them particularly prevalent around industrial sites, military facilities, and firefighter training bases. For instance, PFAS-contaminated water was found in a former U.S. Air Force Base in Michigan. According to an August 2018 report in the journal Environmental Research, approximately six million Americans have been exposed to PFAS through their water supply.
The Cost of Remediation
Cleaning PFAS from water supplies can cost over $1 million annually, creating a heavy financial burden for affected communities. At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, we assist Harrison County residents in holding government entities accountable for providing safe, contamination-free water.
Don’t wait to seek justice—connect (330) 992-3036 with our Cadiz traffic ticket lawyer for the help you need and deserve.